“Andy will return to the Mirror as chief reporter next month. He will be a tremendous addition to our newsroom.

“As you will know, Andy has been responsible for some iconic Mirror front page stories.

“His legendary energy and enthusiasm combined with his experience and professionalism will be an enormous asset.”

Lines, who once scooped a world exclusive interview after doorstepping US president Bill Clinton, was US editor of The Mirror from 1997-2001 where he was shortlisted as reporter of the year at the British Journalism Awards for his work covering 9/11.

His work was credited with helping the Mirror win newspaper of the year and team of the year at the British Press Awards.

Following his departure in 2006 then editor Richard Wallace said: “He is without doubt one of the great reporters of our – or any other – generation.

“He has been there, done that and got all the T-shirts.”

In 2004 he stood down as the Mirror’s head of news to become a special correspondent with responsibility for sports news.